Strategist

• • Please note this is a 12 month maternity cover position • • Who Are We SJR is a specialist content and thought leadership agency focused on journalistic storytelling. We are boutique in size, but backed by VML, one of the world's largest creative networks. That means you get the benefits of a tight-knit, nimble agency where your work genuinely matters, along with the career development, learning, and global reach of a major network working with the world’s biggest brands. Who We Are Looking For Strategy has been central to our growth over the past few years, helping us win new clients, deepen existing relationships, and elevate the quality of our work. As we enter another phase of growth, we're looking for a Strategist for a 12 month maternity cover, who will be instrumental in continuing that momentum. You'll sit at the intersection of insight, communications strategy, and activation, using data and research to uncover new angles and insights, translating this into compelling strategies, and guiding how they come to life across digital channels for world-leading B2B brands. We're looking for a talented all-rounder: part strategic thinker, part researcher and analyst, part writer. Someone with 5+ years in strategy, content, or communications, ideally in an agency with B2B experience. Someone who can decode complex challenges, stay ahead of cultural and digital shifts, and craft points of view that move clients and colleagues forward. What You Will Do Comms, content and channel strategy (50%) • Develop strategic narratives and frameworks that define the "what to say" for client projects • Lead research and analysis that shapes agency and project strategy • Create and present compelling strategic decks and presentations • Help identify and articulate client challenges and opportunities in partnership with Client Services and Editorial teams • Apply critical thinking and problem-solving to complex B2B communications challenges • Attend and contribute to cross-functional meetings, including editorial newsrooms, brainstorms, and client inspiration sessions, feeding in insights and elevating strategic capability across the agency • Define a forward-facing view of the industry that enables a path forward for the agency and clients alike • Advise on how to activate strategies across digital channels and platforms to deliver optimal results • Understand the nuances of different platforms and channels to recommend the right mix for content distribution • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure strategic intent is carried through to execution • Support the development of channel-specific strategies that align with overarching communications goals Insight and analysis (30%) • Use social listening tools, website analytics, SEO and keyword research platforms, competitor monitoring, and content/digital trend tools to gather and analyse data (e.g., Meltwater, Google Analytics, SimilarWeb, SEMrush, NewsWhip) • Translate data into clear, actionable insights that inform creative and strategic decisions • Conduct research on content topics, communication opportunities, and audience behaviours to provide detailed insight to client and creative teams • Develop and deliver client-facing reports, including basic data visualisation, copy development, and strategic recommendations • Stay on top of digital, social, and industry trends for assigned clients and the broader agency • Work closely with Client Services and Editorial to ensure our insights and learning are tracked, shared and constantly being refined New business and growth (20%) • Support SJR business development efforts with strategic thinking and insight development • Contribute to the development of RFIs and RFPs across all categories and capability areas • Participate in pitch development and presentations as required • Identify potential opportunities for organic growth within existing clients • Support thought leadership and marketing efforts, including award submissions and content calendar management • Work with Executive Strategy Director and Managing Director to shape and execute EMEA growth strategy • Develop business proposals, structure projections and KPIs in collaboration with team members and helps negotiate contracts as required Experience • Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in a strategy, communications, or content role, ideally within an agency or fast-paced environment (content, creative, social media, PR, or communications agency) • Proven experience in B2B sectors or complex industries such as: Technology (Enterprise, SaaS, FinTech), Finance (non-retail), Healthcare/Pharmaceuticals, Professional Services, Sustainability/ESG, or Crisis Communications • Demonstrated experience with data analysis and insight tools such as Google Analytics, Meltwater, SimilarWeb, SEMrush, NewsWhip, or similar platforms • Background in journalism, content, editorial, strategy, communications, or PR. Experience at a recognised publication or journalistic organisation is highly valued • Track record of career stability with demonstrated progression and sustained impact in previous roles Capabilities • Strategic thinking:Ability to synthesise complex information into clear, compelling strategic narratives • Data fluency:Comfortable working with data sets, analytics platforms, and translating findings into insight • Outstanding communication:Exceptional verbal and written skills with the ability to deliver error-free, persuasive materials • Problem-solving:Creative and critical thinking to tackle complex client challenges • Presentation skills:Ability to craft and deliver compelling decks and client presentations • Digital & platform knowledge:Strong understanding of digital channels, social platforms, and content distribution strategies • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and MacOS Keynote • Strong research skills with meticulous attention to detail Attributes • Ambitious with a strong willingness to learn and commitment to continuous improvement • Ability to manage multiple workstreams and deliver high-quality work on tight deadlines • Flexible, adaptable, and responsive when quick turnarounds are required • Collaborative and open mindset with ability to work across interdisciplinary teams • Proactive and self-directed, with the ability to also work under close direction when needed • Genuine curiosity about industry trends, cultural shifts, and emerging technologies What We Offer • Competitive salary and time off policies, • including: generous matching company pension scheme, Group Life Assurance, Private Medical Insurance, Employee Assistance Programme, Discounted Health Checks, Health Insurance Cash Plan, Gym Discounts, Wellness Benefit, Annual Leave – 25 days + bank holidays, Spot Bonuses, Family Friendly Policies, Season Ticket Loan and Cycle To Work Scheme. • The GroupSJR office in Southbank is in the WPP Sea Containers Campus — complete with a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views over the Thames and the city skyline. • Regular social gatherings — we’re a genuinely kind, down-to-earth team who enjoy spending time together. • A team of intellectually curious, empathetic, and collaborative people. • Salary: Up to £53k (depending on experience) • Hybrid working: 3-4 days in the office • Full time position - 5 days a week • You must have the right to work in the UK – unfortunately we cannot sponsor visas. • We are looking for someone who can start on or around the end of February/beginning of March 2026. SJR, we embrace all types of talent because creativity flourishes when we invest in and celebrate the diversity of our people. Please bring us your experience, your perspectives, your potential, and your background. It’s our combined uncommon talent that helps transform the way the world tells stories. We encourage applicants who belong to traditionally underrepresented groups to apply for all open roles. We are happy to make accommodations throughout all stages of the interview process, so please do not hesitate to speak to the individual organising your interview if you require any.